C.O.- I've got a 72 Cutlass Supreme rag that for all appearances looks to be an original 442. No documentation unfortunately. Its got a 455 in it right now. The original numbers matching 350 is in a crate and leaks a little oil. While I own the car I intend to keep the 455 in it, just fun to drive. As far as resale/ collector/ restoration value goes, should I keep the 350? Should I get it rebuilt? I have no intention of putting it in while I'm driving it but am thinking about down the road. The car is about a 6 from up close and an 8 from 50 feet. Heavily optioned.

Thanks!

 

Hell even I'm an 8 from 50'. I would not dump any money in the engine if there is no plan on putting the 350 back in anytime soon, just store it. I would just keep playing with the car and if you decide to sell down the road or eventially restore, then you have the engine that belongs in it.

 

I guess my question is, does the matching 350 add much value to the car down the road. A friend of mine is of the opinion that having the 455 in it makes it more valuable. if thats the case I'd like to free up the garage space!

 

You have the best of both worlds. You have 455 in the car now to make fun to drive. You have the original 350 in a box to help retain the originality. I say keep it.

Who know how scarce and valuable these cars are going to be in another 40 years?? If they appreciate as much as they have in the last 40, super cool!!

Anyway, I'd say keep it, don't overhaul it til you want to reinstall, and squirt some lube in the cylinders to keep it free. JMHO.

 

Just my .02. Please do not get rid of it and prevent it from being num. matching forever. It will always be worth more later with both engines.

 

Yep